River Institute receives funding from the Shell Environmental Fund

The St. Lawrence River Institute of Environmental Sciences recently received a $7500 grant from the Shell Environmental Fund to purchase a phase contrast microscope. With additional support from the River Institute’s Board of Directors, the purchase provides a powerful tool for the scientific work at the River Institute.

PHOTO CREDIT - Submitted Photo

Cornwall - November 28, 2011 - The St. Lawrence River Institute of Environmental Sciences recently received a $7500 grant from the Shell Environmental Fund to purchase a phase contrast microscope. With additional support from the River Institute’s Board of Directors, the purchase provides a powerful tool for the scientific work at the River Institute.

“This new microscope is state of the art,” states Dr. Andy Bramburger, research scientist. “It enables us to look at microbes, including bacteria and algae, at up to 1000x magnification. The microscope and associated software provide high resolution imaging and measurement capabilities that help us to visualize and quantify surface structures of very small organisms. It is a great tool for our research and education programs.”

The River Institute is grateful to the Shell Environmental Fund for supporting the purchase of this important piece of equipment.

The River Institute was established in 1994 as a unique community partnership involving government, education, business and industry, and the Mohawks of Akwesasne. Its mandate is to undertake environmental research, education, and community action programs with a focus on the Great Lakes / St. Lawrence River ecosystem.